Contributions of the Not for Profit Sector

The Australian Government today welcomed the release of the Productivity Commission’s draft report – Contributions of the Not for Profit Sector.

The draft report identifies ways to improve not for profit involvement in shaping government policy and programs, and provides recommendations for improving the regulatory, contracting and reporting arrangements for the sector.

Minister for Community Services Jenny Macklin and Parliamentary Secretary for Social Inclusion and the Voluntary Sector Senator Ursula Stephens today acknowledged the significant role the not for profit sector plays in Australia.

‘The outcome of this important inquiry will help us identify ways to improve our partnership with the not for profit sector to ensure we maximise its contribution to Australia,’ Ms Macklin said.

‘The draft report identifies barriers which prevent the not for profit sector from getting on with the job. It is critical that we overcome these barriers, particularly for those organisations that deliver services in the community on behalf of the government.

‘I encourage individuals and community organisations to make submissions or comment on the draft report to enable the Commission to capture a full range of views before finalising its report.’

Senator Stephens said the draft report provided a detailed insight into the current relationships between government, business and community organisations.

‘Community organisations play a crucial role in combating social exclusion and enhancing the economic, social, cultural and environmental wellbeing of our society,’ Senator Stephens said.

‘We are also committed to improving the relationship between government and the sector through the development of a National Compact with the not for profit sector.’

To obtain a copy of the draft report, please visit: Australian Government: Productivity Commission website.